I am writing this newsletter article in the waiting room of a hospital. I’m waiting here with the McGue family as Bradley’s liver transplant surgery takes place. Families all around me are in various stages of wait. Some are anxiously pacing the room, while others are snoozing in uncomfortable positions. Beyond their waiting habits, I wonder what their stories are.
Most importantly of all, I am aware that Brad and his family have been waiting, waiting, waiting many years for this day to come. Their everyday life has been full of waiting for the past several years. Plans were always made with a tentative “unless we get the call…” Cell phones were always ready at the hip in case the call for the liver came. And while their wait is something the rest of us can not imagine, the McGue family knew they were not waiting alone. Countless persons have been faithfully praying for this day to come. Others have always been on standby to help the family out at a moment’s notice. Today, Susan’s phone keeps buzzing as family members, neighbors, friends, and St. Peter’s members call for updates. “Is the liver here yet?” “When is the transplant going to happen?” “When is it going to be over?” “Did the liver take?” “Is he going to be okay?”
I am happy to report that Brad’s transplant surgery was a success. But the celebration of this event is still muted, because the days and weeks following a transplant are very critical. Complications can occur, so it is difficult to celebrate when he isn’t completely out of the woods yet. So, we wait to celebrate this event which is a true answer to prayer and a blessed gift from God and the family of the organ donor who had to make a difficult decision to bless others in a time of grief.
Waiting, waiting. Advent is partly a season of wait, and patience. As we prepare for Christmas when we celebrate the coming of Jesus, we are reminded to wait for God in other areas of our life, and live in faith. In times of wait, God teaches us patience.
Author Henri Nouwen writes, “Without patience, our expectation degenerates into wishful thinking. Patience comes from the word ‘patior’ which means to suffer. The first thing that Jesus promises is suffering. But he calls these birth pains. And so, what seems a hindrance becomes a way; what seems like an obstacle becomes a door; what seems a misfit becomes a cornerstone. Jesus changes our history from a series of sad incidents and accidents into a constant opportunity for a change of heart. To wait patiently therefore means to allow our weeping and wailing to become the purifying preparation by which we are made ready to receive the joy which is promised us.”
Let this be our prayer this Advent season, that we may be taught patience, dependence, and trust, so that God’s will may be done in our lives. The best news, of course, is that the waiting will end - our fulfillment will come in the eternal life that we have been promised through the life, death, and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. Additionally, God does not ask that we wait alone. God’s own Spirit is right there with us to give us comfort, patience, and peace, and to help us keep our hope fixed on the promises eternal.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Spaghetti Dinner and Legacy Gospel Concert
Spaghetti Dinner and Gospel Concert on Saturday, December 5th
In conjunction with Rolling Thunder Ohio Chapter 6, another spaghetti dinner will be held at the church on Saturday, December 5th from 4 to 7 PM. While the meal honors veterans, it is for everyone, so we hope you’ll join us! There is no set cost for the meal, it is donation only. At 7 PM, the bluegrass ensemble Legacy will be putting on a concert in the sanctuary. There is no cost of admission, but a “love offering” will be taken for the group’s ministry. Invite your friends, and prepare for an evening of pasta, music, and the gospel!
In conjunction with Rolling Thunder Ohio Chapter 6, another spaghetti dinner will be held at the church on Saturday, December 5th from 4 to 7 PM. While the meal honors veterans, it is for everyone, so we hope you’ll join us! There is no set cost for the meal, it is donation only. At 7 PM, the bluegrass ensemble Legacy will be putting on a concert in the sanctuary. There is no cost of admission, but a “love offering” will be taken for the group’s ministry. Invite your friends, and prepare for an evening of pasta, music, and the gospel!
Advent Experiences and Christmas Eve Schedule
Comfort, Caring, and Cheer: Memorable Advent Experiences for All Ages
COMFORT: Wednesday, December 2nd at 6 PM
Bring a “comfort food” to share at this combination potluck dinner/worship service. Over dinner, we will reflect on the comfort that God gives us in his son, Jesus Christ. Main dishes, side dishes, and desserts are all welcome. Drinks will be provided.
CARING: Wednesday, December 9th at 6 PM
Meet at the church for a Food Pantry Scavenger Hunt! We will get into cars and drive around to homes of friends and members seeking donations for the Interfaith Thrift Shop’s Food Pantry. (See the Food Pantry’s Need List below!) We will then return to the church to total up our goods and share a brief reflection on how Christ calls us to care for those in need.
Note: We will be collecting two lists of names at the church – those who want us to definitely stop by their house, and those who do not wish to receive visits! Call the church office if you’d like to be placed on either list.
CHEER: Wednesday, December 16th, at 6 PM
Meet at the church for an evening of Christmas Caroling! Last year we visited Van Crest, the Sarah Jane Center, and even Chief Supermarket! Wherever we go this year, we will definitely spread some Christmas cheer! We will end our evening back at the church with some hot chocolate and cookies.
Christmas Eve Services are at 4 and 9 PM.
COMFORT: Wednesday, December 2nd at 6 PM
Bring a “comfort food” to share at this combination potluck dinner/worship service. Over dinner, we will reflect on the comfort that God gives us in his son, Jesus Christ. Main dishes, side dishes, and desserts are all welcome. Drinks will be provided.
CARING: Wednesday, December 9th at 6 PM
Meet at the church for a Food Pantry Scavenger Hunt! We will get into cars and drive around to homes of friends and members seeking donations for the Interfaith Thrift Shop’s Food Pantry. (See the Food Pantry’s Need List below!) We will then return to the church to total up our goods and share a brief reflection on how Christ calls us to care for those in need.
Note: We will be collecting two lists of names at the church – those who want us to definitely stop by their house, and those who do not wish to receive visits! Call the church office if you’d like to be placed on either list.
CHEER: Wednesday, December 16th, at 6 PM
Meet at the church for an evening of Christmas Caroling! Last year we visited Van Crest, the Sarah Jane Center, and even Chief Supermarket! Wherever we go this year, we will definitely spread some Christmas cheer! We will end our evening back at the church with some hot chocolate and cookies.
Christmas Eve Services are at 4 and 9 PM.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
From Pastor Katherine
In high school and college, I was safely nestled in the cocoon of my parents’ financial protection. I had no idea how fortunate I was to have my daily needs met and my education provided for me. I thoughtlessly spent every penny I earned from part-time jobs on fun things like clothes, concerts, CD’s, and nights out with friends. When I graduated from college and took a job as the office manager of a Lutheran camp, I was in for a real shock. Although the majority of my paycheck went to paying rent in my pricey (yet crowded) California apartment, I quickly discovered what seemed to be a way to keep enjoying the lifestyle I always had: credit cards! It was amazing. I could walk into a store without a penny to my name, and walk out with something new and shiny, thanks to my plastic companion! Needless to say, that fantasy world didn’t last very long either, and reality soon came knocking at my door in the form of bills that took my breath away. After one tearful night on the phone to my parents, I knew I needed a major lifestyle change. I could not keep living like an irresponsible teenager on a young adult’s meager paycheck. I began the process of learning how to live within my means, and today I continue to live those lessons learned.
For me, it was difficult to learn how to “make it simple.” I had confused many needs with wants for so long. Around the same time I learned financial responsibility, I discovered the powerful practice of personal stewardship in my spiritual life. My Lutheran church began hosting a series on stewardship much like the one we will start on the first of this month at St. Peter’s. At first, I didn’t think the lessons would apply to me since my net worth at the time was less than zero. But, almost like a child, I began learning the joy that came from sharing, even in modest amounts, and it started to feel great. Each month, I began planning where my money was going to go: a certain percentage to rent, a certain percentage to debt payments, and a certain percentage to God! The monthly check to my church was the most freeing and joyful one to write. It was like an act of defiance against the credit card companies and other temptations that had sucked me in before!
I hope you will see this upcoming stewardship campaign as an opportunity to re-evaluate priorities, and re-discover the joy that comes with giving and sharing! No matter how far we’ve come or how many life lessons we’ve learned, God is always seeking to stretch and grow us in new ways. More info is available through the link on the home page, which includes a calendar of events that will take place between now and November 22nd. We hope you will join us in growing and giving joyfully!
For me, it was difficult to learn how to “make it simple.” I had confused many needs with wants for so long. Around the same time I learned financial responsibility, I discovered the powerful practice of personal stewardship in my spiritual life. My Lutheran church began hosting a series on stewardship much like the one we will start on the first of this month at St. Peter’s. At first, I didn’t think the lessons would apply to me since my net worth at the time was less than zero. But, almost like a child, I began learning the joy that came from sharing, even in modest amounts, and it started to feel great. Each month, I began planning where my money was going to go: a certain percentage to rent, a certain percentage to debt payments, and a certain percentage to God! The monthly check to my church was the most freeing and joyful one to write. It was like an act of defiance against the credit card companies and other temptations that had sucked me in before!
I hope you will see this upcoming stewardship campaign as an opportunity to re-evaluate priorities, and re-discover the joy that comes with giving and sharing! No matter how far we’ve come or how many life lessons we’ve learned, God is always seeking to stretch and grow us in new ways. More info is available through the link on the home page, which includes a calendar of events that will take place between now and November 22nd. We hope you will join us in growing and giving joyfully!
Thanksgiving Eve Worship
Thanksgiving Eve Worship will be held on Wednesday, November 25th at 7 PM. This is a wonderful opportunity for us to worship in thankfulness for all God has given us. Worshipers are encouraged to bring items for the Interfaith Thrift Shop's food pantry. A list of needs is in this month's newsletter.
Make It Simple
In November, we are holding a 4-session stewardship emphasis series entitled "Make It Simple." Below you can find the schedule of events and more information.
Sunday, November 1st - “Following Jesus” - All Saints Sunday
8:45 – Adult Bible Study, 10:00 – Worship
Key Passage: Matt. 6:24-34
Sunday, November 8th - “Facing the Truth” - Thankoffering Sunday
8:45 – Adult Bible Study, 10:00 – Worship
Key Passage: Mark 4:37-41
Sunday, November 8th - “Acting Together”
8:45 – Adult Bible Study, 10:00 – Worship
Key Passage: John 13:31-35
Sunday, November 22nd - “Sharing Enough” -Commitment Sunday
8:45 – Adult Bible Study, 10:00 – Worship, 11:15 – Mexican Fiesta!
Key Passage: Luke 5:1-11
“Make It Simple” Stewardship Series – Frequently Asked Questions
Why Commit?
Perhaps some of you are wondering why we are doing a special stewardship campaign this year, when we have not for so many years. The first reason is that each follower of Christ has a need to give, and when people are invited to reflect on this spiritual practice, they will grow in faith and in commitment to God. The second reason is that the council believes that the church will benefit from this. Numerous studies have shown that those who think about their giving and are intentional about what they give end up giving more faithfully and more joyfully than those who give with little thought or attention to what is being given. Additionally, the council thinks that it will be helpful to our leadership to have an estimate of what people are planning to give as the 2010 budget is drafted and submitted for approval.
An Estimate of Giving
Perhaps it will be more helpful for some of you to think of your 2010 commitment as an Estimate of Giving. When you bring forward your estimate of giving card on Commitment Sunday (November 22), it is only an estimate. Of course, financial situations can change unexpectedly and we understand that. You will not be pressured by anyone from the church to fulfill your obligation if your circumstances should change. The estimate is helpful to the church as we prepare the 2010 budget, but most importantly it is a commitment between you and your God.
What if I Can't Commit?
Some people, due to personal circumstances, will not feel comfortable filling out a 2010 estimate of giving. We want to reassure people that this is okay. Please participate in the four weeks of the stewardship program with an open mind, and let God speak to your heart about the practice of stewardship. If, at the end of the campaign, you are not comfortable making a commitment, that is your choice and nobody will come knocking on your door asking you why you did not pledge. The main point of the stewardship campaign is to educate the people about stewardship and to get every member to think prayerfully about their commitments.
Sunday, November 1st - “Following Jesus” - All Saints Sunday
8:45 – Adult Bible Study, 10:00 – Worship
Key Passage: Matt. 6:24-34
Sunday, November 8th - “Facing the Truth” - Thankoffering Sunday
8:45 – Adult Bible Study, 10:00 – Worship
Key Passage: Mark 4:37-41
Sunday, November 8th - “Acting Together”
8:45 – Adult Bible Study, 10:00 – Worship
Key Passage: John 13:31-35
Sunday, November 22nd - “Sharing Enough” -Commitment Sunday
8:45 – Adult Bible Study, 10:00 – Worship, 11:15 – Mexican Fiesta!
Key Passage: Luke 5:1-11
“Make It Simple” Stewardship Series – Frequently Asked Questions
Why Commit?
Perhaps some of you are wondering why we are doing a special stewardship campaign this year, when we have not for so many years. The first reason is that each follower of Christ has a need to give, and when people are invited to reflect on this spiritual practice, they will grow in faith and in commitment to God. The second reason is that the council believes that the church will benefit from this. Numerous studies have shown that those who think about their giving and are intentional about what they give end up giving more faithfully and more joyfully than those who give with little thought or attention to what is being given. Additionally, the council thinks that it will be helpful to our leadership to have an estimate of what people are planning to give as the 2010 budget is drafted and submitted for approval.
An Estimate of Giving
Perhaps it will be more helpful for some of you to think of your 2010 commitment as an Estimate of Giving. When you bring forward your estimate of giving card on Commitment Sunday (November 22), it is only an estimate. Of course, financial situations can change unexpectedly and we understand that. You will not be pressured by anyone from the church to fulfill your obligation if your circumstances should change. The estimate is helpful to the church as we prepare the 2010 budget, but most importantly it is a commitment between you and your God.
What if I Can't Commit?
Some people, due to personal circumstances, will not feel comfortable filling out a 2010 estimate of giving. We want to reassure people that this is okay. Please participate in the four weeks of the stewardship program with an open mind, and let God speak to your heart about the practice of stewardship. If, at the end of the campaign, you are not comfortable making a commitment, that is your choice and nobody will come knocking on your door asking you why you did not pledge. The main point of the stewardship campaign is to educate the people about stewardship and to get every member to think prayerfully about their commitments.
Youth Group Offers Babysitting
Need a babysitter so you can do your holiday shopping or decorating? Look no further! St. Peter’s Senior High Youth Group is offering a day of babysitting.
Date: Saturday, November 28, 6AM-4PM.
Cost: $2 per hour per child
Location: St. Peter Lutheran Church – 422 N. Pierce St., Delphos
Call 419-231-2121 (Stacy) by 11/24/09 to schedule your time.
You must RSVP to attend…Limited Openings Available…Call Soon!
Snacks and Lunch will be provided.
Age-appropriate games and activities!
Proceeds will benefit the youth group!
Date: Saturday, November 28, 6AM-4PM.
Cost: $2 per hour per child
Location: St. Peter Lutheran Church – 422 N. Pierce St., Delphos
Call 419-231-2121 (Stacy) by 11/24/09 to schedule your time.
You must RSVP to attend…Limited Openings Available…Call Soon!
Snacks and Lunch will be provided.
Age-appropriate games and activities!
Proceeds will benefit the youth group!
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